WAS-H Academy

Helping Students Build a Solid Foundation

Education Director - Cheryl Evans - Education@WatercolorHouston.org

Beginners Watercolor Academy (BWA)

The Beginners Watercolor Academy is a six-part workshop series designed to give aspiring artists a clear, hands-on introduction to watercolor painting. Taught by experienced WAS-H instructors, each full-day class focuses on one foundational topic.

You can take just one class—or join the full series for the complete experience.

Why Participate in Academy Workshops?

  • Structured beginner-friendly learning path

  • Expert instructors who make watercolor approachable

  • Hands-on exercises you can use at home

  • Standalone workshops with a cumulative option - 5 BWA Credits for Saturday workshops.

  • Take the Saturday Workshops or opt for weekly alternatives for each of the six Core Workshops.


What happens once I complete the beginning classes/workshops?

After completing 30 beginner class credits to include the six core topics, you’ll receive a certificate recognizing your completion of the WAS-H Beginners Watercolor Academy!

Academy Classes and Workshops

    • February 14, 2026
    • 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • 1601 W. Alabama at Mandell, Houston, Texas 77006
    • 4
    Register


    It's All About Color - For the Beginner

    Linda Vanek, Instructor

    Saturday, February 14

    9:30 am- 3:30 pm

    $85 Regular Tuition

    $75 Member Tuition

    This class is designed with beginners in mind, but all are welcome to join. Participants will also earn five credits toward our Beginners Watercolor Academy program.


    Color is one of the most powerful tools in a painter’s toolbox. In this engaging and supportive class, you’ll explore the fundamentals of color theory and practical mixing techniques that will bring greater harmony, emotion, and depth to your watercolor paintings.

    We’ll cover key topics including:

    • Understanding the color wheel: primary, secondary, and tertiary colors

    • How to create neutrals, tints, and shades

    • The differences between warm and cool colors and how they affect mood

    • Techniques for mixing colors that work beautifully together

    • The psychology and emotional impact of color in art

    • The role of color value in creating strong compositions

    In addition to lively discussions and demonstrations, you’ll practice mixing a range of colors using round and flat brushes. Each student will receive individual support during class painting time, making this a hands-on, confidence-building experience.

    Click on the link below to see what to bring to class:

    All About Color Student List 2026.pdf


    Safety Alert: Individuals attending this activity should be aware that they require the ability to safely descend stairs in an emergency.


    #houstonartclass #artclasshouston #texasartclass #houstonartist #houston365 #365Houston #watercoloracademy

    • February 21, 2026
    • 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • 1601 W. Alabama at Mandell, Houston, Texas 77006
    • 0
    Join waitlist



    Bringing it all together!

    Carla Gauthier, Instructor

    Saturday, February 21

    9:30 am- 3:30 pm

    $85 Regular Tuition

    $75 Member Tuition

    This class is designed with beginners in mind, but all are welcome to join. Participants will also earn five credits toward our Beginners Watercolor Academy program.

    Refine your watercolor skills in this class -- tie everything together that you've learn in our core classes—drawing, composition, color, texture, and technique. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll plan, sketch, and complete a finished watercolor painting that reflects your personal style and vision.

    Photos can often feel overwhelming—so many shapes, colors, and textures—but any subject can be broken down into manageable steps. In this class, you'll learn how to analyze your reference photo and translate it into a clear, structured painting plan. Whether you're working with a landscape, floral, or portrait—and whether your style is abstract, impressionistic, or realistic—you’ll gain techniques that empower you to paint with confidence.

    We’ll focus on creating unified, harmonious compositions with strong focal points. A guided exercise will help reinforce these concepts, giving you tools you can take back to your studio practice.

    What to Bring:

    • Your usual watercolor supplies

    • Pencil and watercolor paper (about 11" x 15", or quarter sheet)

    • One or two reference photos you love but feel unsure how to approach

    If time allows, we’ll review your reference photos together and discuss strategies for turning them into successful paintings.

    Safety Alert: Individuals attending this activity should be aware that they require the ability to safely descend stairs in an emergency.


    #houstonartclass #artclasshouston #texasartclass #houstonartist #houston365 #365Houston #watercoloracademy

    • February 22, 2026
    • 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
    • 1601 W. Alabama at Mandell, Houston, Texas 77006
    • 8
    Register



    Bringing it all together!

    Carla Gauthier, Instructor

    Sunday, February 22

    9:30 am- 3:30 pm

    $85 Regular Tuition

    $75 Member Tuition

    This class is designed with beginners in mind, but all are welcome to join. Participants will also earn five credits toward our Beginners Watercolor Academy program.

    Refine your watercolor skills in this class -- tie everything together that you've learn in our core classes—drawing, composition, color, texture, and technique. With step-by-step guidance, you’ll plan, sketch, and complete a finished watercolor painting that reflects your personal style and vision.

    Photos can often feel overwhelming—so many shapes, colors, and textures—but any subject can be broken down into manageable steps. In this class, you'll learn how to analyze your reference photo and translate it into a clear, structured painting plan. Whether you're working with a landscape, floral, or portrait—and whether your style is abstract, impressionistic, or realistic—you’ll gain techniques that empower you to paint with confidence.

    We’ll focus on creating unified, harmonious compositions with strong focal points. A guided exercise will help reinforce these concepts, giving you tools you can take back to your studio practice.

    What to Bring:

    • Your usual watercolor supplies

    • Pencil and watercolor paper (about 11" x 15", or quarter sheet)

    • One or two reference photos you love but feel unsure how to approach

    If time allows, we’ll review your reference photos together and discuss strategies for turning them into successful paintings.

    Safety Alert: Individuals attending this activity should be aware that they require the ability to safely descend stairs in an emergency.


    #houstonartclass #artclasshouston #texasartclass #houstonartist #houston365 #365Houston #watercoloracademy

1601 West Alabama Houston TX 77006
Gallery: 713-942-9966
Questions? Email 
admin@watercolorhouston.org

HOURS: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 3 pm

©Watercolor Art Society - Houston. All images are property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
} catch(err) {}